Coptic Cairo

Coptic Culture

COPTIC MONASTICISM

The Copts established the first
theological school in Alexandria which produced many great
minds such as Clement, Origen and Athanasius. Their
theological and philosophical contributions to Christian
doctrine and dogma especially in the Ecumenical Councils
had a profound effect on Christianity. Among these Egyptian
theologians, monasticism also began making Egypt the
motherland of monasticism. Coptic monasticism was
established by St. Anthony the Great, born in Upper Egypt
in 251 A.D. This movement spread not only throughout Egypt
but also Europe as well through the efforts of Coptic
monks. In the 4th and 5th centuries Coptic monasticism
attracted many foreigners such as Palladius, Rufinous,
Jerome and John Cassian to the Egyptian desert.
Monastic life flourished throughout Egypt. This can be seen
by the number of monasteries in various parts of the country.
Through the contributions of Coptic monks and laity,
the Coptic Church is extremely rich in culture,
tradition, heritage, saints, and spirituality.